A diverse overflow crowd of 1,200 enthusiastic supporters and well-wishers joined Councilmember Bernard Parks in launching his campaign for the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors at the festive grand opening of his Crenshaw area headquarters on Saturday.

Highlighting the event was Congresswoman Maxine Waters, who formally endorsed Council-member Parks. The endorsement represents a major development in the campaign to replace retiring Second District Supervisor Yvonne B. Burke.

“Bernard Parks is the right person, at the right time,” said Waters. “Bernard has shown that he can be a leader on both business and economic development and government services for the protection of our children and our families. Los Angeles County’s 2nd District needs a strong dedicated leader who is prepared to tackle the many complicated and challenging issues we are all facing.”

Because of her influence and popularity, Congresswoman Waters’ strong backing reinforces the momentum that Bernard Parks’ campaign has generated. Recent reports of campaign contributions reveal that Parks holds a major lead over Sen. Mark Ridley-Thomas,

Citing his “no non-sense but caring management style,” Congress-woman Waters also commended Parks for his work and his commitment to save King-Harbor Hospital.

Addressing the Board of Supervisors at its Tuesday meeting, Parks spoke out on the urgent need for the Board of Supervisors and Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to use the resources of the University of California health care system in confronting the health care crisis in South Los Angeles.

Parks acknowledged the boost that Saturday’s event gives his campaign, and said that he was grateful for the support he has received. He also observed that most of the people attending the event signed-up to volunteer their time to work in his campaign.

“People are responding to our campaign because we’re offering something different. They want leaders who aren’t afraid to tackle tough issues. They want leaders who will get things done,” said Parks.